Incredibly heartwarming
I had been putting it off for quite a while as I was scared off a little by the hype around the book and worried that I wasn't going to enjoy it as much as I was anticipating... boy was I wrong!
This book simply, but beautifully portrays the life of a socially awkward woman, filled with trauma, as she learns to break free from herself with the help of those around her.
Eleanor is awkward, odd & sometimes just downright strange but she helps you to reflect back on those parts of ourselves we would rather not think about and/or sometimes not even recognise. Her journey of self love & discovery made for a completely compelling read which was near impossible to put down. Her character was so perfectly crafted and realistic, it made her at times incredibly relatable and made me warm to her & her odd ways very fast.
Eleanor is helped along her journey by a fellow work colleague Raymond. Raymond was an incredibly vital part of Eleanor's life and the story. He was the simple daily boost & friendship that she so badly needed to help her get past her demons and grow further as a human. He was so perfectly depicted as realistic and easy to empathise with & I really enjoyed the fact that he was just a regular human, not some knight in shining armour perfect in every way.
Gail Honeyman does an incredible job at making all of the themes in this novel combine seamlessly & not making them overwhelming. It is very well-written, insightful and alternates between heartbreaking and heartwarming through every page. Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine is a beautifully written, hilarious and true account of loneliness and how a little kindness can have a massive impact. Everybody needs to read this book - it is on the top of my all time favourites list.
Paul Sanders, 22/09/2020
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Never have I come across such a memorable and unique character in modern fiction as Eleanor Oliphant.
Eleanor leads a simple life and is a creature of habit. She is happy, but something seems to be missing from her life.
A very original story that is funny, sad and thought provoking that speaks to the power of how a little kindness can help overcome anything, especially lonliness. - Joanne (QBD)
Guest, 18/05/2019
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Eleanor is completely fine and completely alone. But everything is about to change when a small act of kindness disrupts Eleanor’s regimented life. The writing style is unique and powerful with a real sensitivity to the human experience. This book at its core demonstrates how small acts of kindness can have an immeasurable impact. If everybody read this book the world would be a better place. - Orah (QBD)
Guest, 24/10/2018